Social media users have praised the maternity care in Weston-super-Mare, with tens of thousands backing a bid to secure the future of birthing services in the town.

A petition calling for pregnant women to have the choice of giving birth at Weston General Hospital has achieved more than 27,000 signatures.

Weston’s maternity services are under scrutiny as part of an extensive review of the town’s healthcare needs.

North Somerset Clinical Commissioning Group’s Healthy Weston plan, which will shape the future of healthcare services in the area, says it is not financially viable to keep the unit as it is with so few births, but a final decision is yet to be made.

The town’s MP, John Penrose, believes the department should increase its capabilities so it can deal with minor complications, meaning fewer expectant mothers would be sent to Bristol’s St Michael’s Hospital.

Many people took to social media to share their view.

Sue Phillips Roper said: “I sincerely hope Weston can keep its maternity unit. However good Bristol is, it is too far away for both the mother and family.

“And mothers are turned out way too quickly after the birth at Bristol. That stress cannot help new mothers.”

Nicola Fletcher wrote: “I had all my children in St Michael’s. I would never choose Weston even though it’s where I live, it’s just not advanced enough.”

Sarah Louise Grinnell commented: “Weston is absolutely the best place. So calm and relaxed and a wonderful group of midwives there.”

Mel Crew said: “I had great experiences in Southmead and St Michael’s but terrible experiences in Weston and ended up having my son in St Michael’s.”

Jennie Margetson wrote: “I chose Bristol. If you have anything slightly wrong in Weston you get sent there anyway. The midwives at St Michael’s were outstanding.”

Sam Bush said: “I wanted to give birth at Weston soon but unfortunately I don’t have a choice and have to go to Bristol again.

“I had very positive birth experiences at both places but would choose the quiet and the calm of Weston over Bristol any day if I could.”